World class Burgess chooses Bath Rugby for cross-code switch

17 February 2014

Bath Rugby are excited to confirm that English Rugby League sensation Sam Burgess has chosen to sign a three year deal with the Club, which will see him cross codes and arrive at the Recreation Ground this October.

The 25 year old is currently playing in the NRL with the South Sydney Rabbitohs and, despite having received far more lucrative offers from elsewhere, has chosen to join Bath at the culmination of the Australian rugby league season. He has represented both England and Great Britain, scoring seven tries in his 13 appearances for England.

At 6ft 5in and 18st, power and strength are obvious qualities, however he is also known for his deft handling and as a strong leader.

On his decision to make the cross-code switch, Burgess commented: "This has been a tough decision for me to make, as I've loved my time in Sydney with the Rabbitohs. However, I'm very excited about the challenge that this move offers me.

"Bath are a very ambitious Club, who have a talented young squad, brilliant coaches and a world class set-up and ethos, and I can't wait to get my head down and start learning the game. Having said that, until the move, my focus will be completely on the Rabbitohs and helping them go one step further."

Bath Head Coach, Mike Ford, added: "I've known Sam since his rugby league days in England and he is an exceptionally talented athlete. He's hard working, a huge presence both on and off the field, and an ambitious young Englishman, all of which are qualities that we are building our squad around. I've no doubt Sam will fit in seamlessly here at Bath and we're looking forward to having him join us and start making the transition."